A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Newcastle for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Newcastle can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a idyllic, remote, and spectacular island chain. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a coastal, vibrant, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Similan Islands and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newcastle. Although Similan Islands and Newcastle are both popular with visitors, Newcastle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newcastle is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Newcastle is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. It is also home to the Bathers Way. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newcastle and Similan Islands. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Newcastle. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Newcastle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Newcastle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Newcastle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Similan Islands a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Newcastle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is terrific for the beach. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Similan Islands. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Newcastle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Newcastle are destinations which offer good hiking.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Newcastle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Newcastle is well-known for its shopping. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Newcastle are good to visit with kids.

Similan Islands is a family-friendly island chain. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is terrific for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Similan Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Newcastle is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Newcastle has some public transit options. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Similan Islands and Newcastle are good when it comes to walkability.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable place. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

Newcastle is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Newcastle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Similan Islands or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Similan Islands due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

Couples should spend more time in Similan Islands than Newcastle. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Similan Islands that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle than Similan Islands if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Newcastle.

One day in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island chain of Similan Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The coastal destination of Newcastle offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Newcastle offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the spectacular island chain of Similan Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island chain makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island chain has to offer.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Similan Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Newcastle, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Newcastle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Similan Islands is in Asia and Newcastle is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Newcastle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newcastle and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands than you might in Newcastle.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Newcastle Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Similan Islands experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Newcastle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Newcastle. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Newcastle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Similan Islands is a little warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Similan Islands in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Newcastle averages at about 22°C (72°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein January. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Newcastlein January. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Newcastle in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Newcastle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Similan Islands is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein April. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (81°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Newcastlein April. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Newcastle in the Winter?

Both Newcastle and Similan Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Newcastle in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Newcastle fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in July.

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Newcastlein July. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Newcastlein July. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Newcastle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Newcastle this time of year.

In the spring, Similan Islands is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Newcastle averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastle during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Newcastlein October. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Similan Islands